Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2026

Autonomous and Rechargeable Microneurostimulator Endoscopically Implantable into the Submucosa
Published on: September 27, 2018
Transcutaneous Neuromodulation for Constipation and Fecal Incontinence in Children: A Systematic Review and
Ronny Rodrigues Correia1, Luis Felipe Orsi Gameiro2, Nathalia Grion Trevisane1
1Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University-Unesp, Araraquara 01049-010, Brazil.
Introduction:
Constipation is a disorder with a multifactorial origin. Constipation has a varied clinical presentation, including infrequent defecation of bulky stools and episodes of retentive fecal incontinence. Neuromodulation has been used to treat many health problems, with promising results.
Objective:
To conduct a systematic review of randomized clinical trials based on the effects of transcutaneous neuromodulation in treating constipation and retentive fecal incontinence in children and adolescents.
Methods:
A systematic review of randomized clinical trials was performed. Medline (PubMed), PEDro, SciELO, Cochrane (CENTRAL), Embase, and Scopus databases were searched from March 2000 to August 2022. We included clinical trials evaluating transcutaneous neuromodulation in children with constipation and fecal incontinence compared or associated with other types of treatment. Two reviewers independently selected relevant studies, assessed the methodological quality, and extracted the data.
Results:
Three studies with 164 participants were included in this review. Two meta-analyses were generated based on these studies. These analyses revealed that transcutaneous neuromodulation is an effective adjuvant treatment modality that improves children's constipation and retentive fecal incontinence. The methodological quality of the included studies was classified as high based on the assessment of the quality of evidence, with a high degree of confidence based on the GRADE system.
Conclusions:
Transcutaneous neuromodulation is an effective adjuvant treatment modality for children with constipation and retentive fecal incontinence.
Related Concept Videos
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Bulk-Forming and Stimulant Laxatives
Bulk-forming laxatives, such as psyllium, methylcellulose, and polycarbophil, absorb water in the intestine, increasing stool bulk and promoting bowel movement. This makes...
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Other Laxatives
Osmotic or saline laxatives, like magnesium hydroxide or milk of...
Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome III: Medical and Nursing Management

